After a week of assessments, the decision was taken for him to be operated on by orthopaedic surgeon Dr Bryan T Kelly in New York.

The surgery was hailed as a success but Sturridge was told he would be sidelined for a further four months and isn’t expected to play again until September.

Most of his rehab has taken place in America and he has previously spoken about his gratitude for what Liverpool’s owners have done for him.

“I like America, the way of thinking is different,” he said.

Happier times: But Sturridge only made 12 league starts last season (Image: Getty)

“When you’re injured it’s important to have a different mentality. You have to channel yourself that you’re not a football player, that you could be a boxer or a tennis player or whatever it may be.

“You have to have a single-minded mentality to get back in the best shape possible. When you’re injured it’s important to have that type of mentality. That’s why, being out here, I’m single-minded, zoning in on what I have to do and it’s great to be here.

“The physios at Liverpool are top class, but it’s a change of environment that worked before and I wanted to do it again.

“The Boston physio is unbelievable. He’s a great guy and the treatments that he does and the techniques that he uses are amazing.

“I’m grateful to be able to work with him because he is an amazing physio. And the fitness coaches here are really good too. So I’m looking forward to getting myself in the best shape possible to aim to return to health and to perform extremely well next season.

“The owners have done everything for me. I’ve nothing but gratitude towards them. They’ve moved heaven and earth for me to be comfortable. So I cannot thank them enough for what they’ve done for me. I’m very grateful.

“It’s humbling. They have gone out of their way to make me feel comfortable and to get me whatever I need. I can never thank them enough. Hopefully I’ll be able to repay with them goals.”

During a stroll around Boston on Friday, Sturridge posted on social media: “Boston is too sexy right now. Charles river and sparkling water is my afternoon.”

He later delighted American Reds by walking into the Phoenix Landing bar – the headquarters for Liverpool FC supporters in Boston.